Crane drivers may enter a car to release the handbrake, as long as they don't enter with illegal intent. Trailer operators must take all reasonable precautions to prevent the loss or damage to any towed vehicle. You are allowed access to your vehicle. You or the person acting on behalf of the owner must be able to access the vehicle, unless otherwise indicated by the police. Request a certificate if you are a trailer operator, crane driver, or storage operator who provides towing or vehicle storage services.
If drivers believe that a tow truck driver has violated these rules, an anonymous reporting service is available. Unlike crane operators, vehicle storage services don't need your consent to store your car in their vehicle storage facilities. Crane drivers, towing companies and vehicle storage operators must be certified in Ontario and comply with a code of conduct. They also ensure that all consumers in the province share the same rights when it comes to towing services.
To give the industry time to prepare, the requirement to have a certificate will not apply until January 1, 2024 for crane and vehicle storage operators and July 1, 2024 for crane drivers. Crane operators, towing companies and vehicle storage operators must follow a code of conduct and meet Ontario customer safety and security requirements.
